Virtual Microscopy – Nature Experience Radical Design (NERD) Jam

Abstract

This article proposes using microscopy for nature-inspired design in the early stage of “fuzzy front end” radical innovation and sustainable design technology, where it would have a high positive or sustainable impact. To give a taste of what is possible, a live virtual Nature Experience Radical Design (NERD) Jam was created. Instead of starting with a problem, designers, biologists, engineers, microscopists, and curious people were invited to begin with the solution. By observing and empathizing with nature, both in its element and under a microscope, microscopy reveals unique structural adaptations and possible unknown strategies and mechanisms when exploring nature as a series of successful devices in particular environmental contexts. By looking at nature on multiple scales, one can discover unique models to design sustainable solutions for multiple human challenges.